Brave Andy enjoys new ski challenge
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| Andy on the ski slopes |
An heroic soldier who lost a leg in Afghanistan has found a new way to overcome his injury - skiing.
Andy Barlow, from Breightmet, is among the first nine amputees in the British army to train in an "adaptive skiing course", for people with a disability, in the Bavarian Alps.
Andy, a machine-gunner from the 2nd Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, lost part of his left leg when he stepped on a mine while running to the aid of a stricken colleague in an unmarked minefield in Afghanistan two years ago.
The former Thornleigh Salesian College pupil said: "I had done some skiing before but obviously this is a massive difference.
"I'm doing three-track skiing, which uses crutches with small skis mounted at the bottom.
"There's a lot to adapt to and it's definitely been a challenge."
Andy was awarded the George Medal, the second highest military award for bravery, at Buckingham Palace in December last year.
He currently works for the regimental recruiting team of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in Bury.
Two of his comrades were also injured in Afganistan, and another, Corporal Mark Wright, was killed.
Lt Col Fred Hargreaves was part of a team which devised the Battle Back skiing course, aimed at giving injured personnel the chance to take part in adventurous training activities they did before being wounded.
He said that many amputees lost confidence and suffered depression, leading to emotional problems which alienated them from their family and friends.
The course aims to develop their leadership, teamwork, physical fitness and moral and physical courage.
9:01am Thursday 3rd April 2008
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